Article Photos

-Messenger photo by Hans MadsenFirefighter Tom Ubben prepares to spray water through a hole cut into the roof as firefighters battle a blaze in the rear of the building at 1923 Fifth Avenue South.

-Messenger photo by Hans MadsenFort Dodge firefighters begin the attack on a fire Thursday afternoon at the New Star Mini Mart located at 1923 Fifth Avenue South.

-Messenger photo by Hans MadsenA Fort Dodge firefighter sends up a shower of sparks and debris as he chops a hole in the roof of the New Star Mini Mart. A fire in the rear of the building caused extensive damage.

Traffic on Fifth Avenue South near the store was restricted to one lane in each direction during the fire.

The incident was reported at 4:05 p.m.

Fire Department Capt. Mitch Sells said a store employee, Mohammed Butte, smelled smoke and looked for the source of the odor. He said Butte went outside and saw smoke coming from the roof at the back of the building.

The fire was between the roof and ceiling of the building. Firefighters used hose lines inside the building and on the roof to douse the fire. Up to five firefighters worked on the roof, cutting holes and peeling off roofing materials.

Sells said an electrical short circuit in an exhaust fan in the bathroom caused the fire.

Four off-duty firefighters were called to the scene to help.

Firefighters and police officers were on the scene until 6:30 p.m.

Electricity to the store was shut off, and it was expected to be closed Friday.